If it weren't for political opposition, solving the agricultural crisis would actually be quite simple. If several grain exporting countries joined forces, uniformly raised grain prices, and divided their respective export quotas, all problems would be solved.
OPEC in later generations did just that, controlling oil production intentionally to avoid vicious competition and ensuring the interests of all member countries.
Regrettably, Prussia and Poland had already become mortal enemies with the Russian Empire, and the Tsarist Government would never agree to a resolution.
It's a matter of principle. Even when Alexander III, the pacifist, came to power, it wasn't possible for him to compromise on this issue.
The Russian people could tolerate failure, but not submission. It was the indefatigable resolve of the Russians that had allowed their empire to grow strong. Once that spirit was broken, the Russian Empire would be finished.
